The combination of the Science Fiction and “Heroic Colonial” genres changes the reader’s perspective and general view on these respective genres by implementing fantasy-like characteristics to the sci-fi end, while mixing in Shakespearean story qualities to the “heroic colonial” aspect of the story at hand.  It is pretty standard for people to correlate science fiction with the future, along with futuristic societies and ideals. However, the story, Dancing to Ganam breaks this stereotype and changes the reader’s perception on sci-fi by taking Shakespearean aspects of a tragic “hero” and applying them to one of the main characters - Dalzul. People in sci-fi stories are typically depicted as more open to diversity, and welcoming due to the progressive nature of the stories, however, Dalzul still demonstrates many ethnocentric traits like sexism, and condescending views on the locals which is essentially his tragic flaw. For example, on page 137, Dalzul refers to the locals as “primitive” and “barbarians”, and on many occasions throughout the story Dalzul blatantly disrespects women as well as the cultural ideals of Ganam. Towards the end of the story falls in touch with reality and loses connection with his comrades, which is suggested when Forest refers to Dalzul and says, “he’s increasingly delusional” (Le Guin 150). As the story progresses, Shan is able to “unmask  Dalzul’s  narrative  as  heavily  corrupted  by  his unconscious desires, Shan starts perceiving Ganam and the Gaman through a new, subjective filter which finally seems to assign subject position to the observed  culture”(Benczik 188). Unfortunately, Dalzul’s loss of senses ultimately leads to his demise. The concept of colonialism was big between the 1500s and the mid 1900s, however it is not something that you think of when you think of sci-fi. Colonialism is presented in this story as Dalzul wishes to essentially invade this land of Ganam and implement his own cultures and ideals. This can be seen in the story when Shan tells Dalzul, “It isn’t your world, sir.” “It’s theirs. They’re responsible for it” (Le Guin 149). However, when Shan suggests that they leave this place at once, Dalzul refuses and says, “Shan, whether I asked for it or not, I have an obligation here , and I will fulfill it” (Le Guin 152).We eventually come to the realization that this “personal responsibility” is all in his head and is ultimately what leads to his downfall. Overall, with the combination of Shakespearean attributes tied with a central theme revolving around colonialism while contrasting the fantasy-style method of travel and subverting the stereotypical setting of sci-fi stories, Le Guin is able to get the reader to perceive both genres in a new light.